Page 38 of Wicked Dreams

“You’re real,” I murmured, dumbfounded. “Or this is the most vivid dream I’ve ever had.”

“I’m real. I’m here, baby. I came for you.” His arms opened. I looked from them to him, knowing damn well the entire room was silently gawking at me, my mother included.And why wouldn’t they be?I was the weirdo in school, only interacting with Anita and more recently Wes. This probably seemed out of this world nuts to everyone. A mysterious, hot guy suddenly appeared, wanting me, touching me like we were in love, in front of everyone.

Not caring about them, I stepped into his arms. The sigh he let out shook me to my core. He was relieved. He'd been afraid I’d run. Of course, the thoughthadgone through my head. His arms clenched around me, pressing my body so close to his there was no room between the two of us.

“I don’t want to wake up,” I sputtered into his neck as he held me.

“Shh, baby. I swear this is all real. You don’t have to wake up. You’re awake.” He rocked me in his strong arms, his lips pressing to my forehead fiercely. When I started to pull away, his hold tightened on me.

“Not yet,” he said, his forehead against mine. “I haven’t finished giving you your gift.”

“What gift is that?” I breathed out. I didn’t have to wait long to find out. His mouth met mine in a crash of passion. His tongue delved deeply into my mouth, tasting me, devouring me from the inside out.

My mom cleared her throat from behind us, causing us to break the kiss off. A tiny giggle bubbled out of my mouth. Van grinned at me, finally releasing me so we could face my mother and the hundred other people in the room.

“Hi.” Mom looked between us, her eyes wide with confusion. “I’m Jennifer, Olivia’s mom.”

“I’m so sorry, Ms. Butler,” Donovan quickly apologized, stepping forward and offering her his hand. “I’m Donovan Weaver.”

“It’s nice to meet you, Donovan,” she replied, her eyes moving from his to mine, obviously wanting to know why I’d never mentioned him before.

“Likewise.” He shook her hand before stepping back to me, his arm immediately snaking around my waist.

“Uh, wow.” Her eyes widened, and a small laugh erupted from her. “Sorry. I’m just surprised. I had no idea Olivia was seeing anyone.”

“We agreed to keep it quiet,” Donovan explained. “Liv wanted to make sure things were working out first before we announced it.”

“I see.” Mom glanced at me again. “Well, Liv, we’ll talk later. For now, I think we should have some cake.”

I knew she was just as confused as everyone else had to be, myself included. She quickly cut the cake and let people come up to get their piece.

“You should eat,” Donovan said, taking a plate for me.

“I don’t think I can,” I answered, my voice shaking.

“Then we should sit.” He chuckled, taking my hand and leading me to where Anita sat with Wes.

“Girl, what the hell?” She rose to her feet and gave me a quick hug.

“I’m sorry I didn’t tell you about him—”

“Keeping secrets about a hot guy like that? I’m proud of you,” she whispered in my ear. “Hotdamn, he’s gorgeous!”

“I know.” I grinned, pulling away from her.

“Hey, man. How’s it going?” Wes shook Donovan’s hand as he sat down beside him.

“Not bad.” Donovan gave him a nod, his arms pulling me onto his lap when I tried to sit in my own chair. “Actually, things are really good. I’m finally able to be here with my girl.”

My face flushed, and I nuzzled against him. Anita let out a sigh of happiness as she watched us.

“Have some cake, sweetheart,” Donovan offered me a forkful. I opened my mouth and let him slide the piece of cake in. He beamed at me as I chewed. “You’re so fucking beautiful. Have I told you that?”

“Yes," I answered bashfully, my face heating even more. I wanted to ask him to join me in private for a few moments, so we could talk. Then maybe I could wrap my head around what wasreallyhappening. Or he could pinch me, so I’d know this wasn’t a dream. But the words got stuck in my throat as Brent approached and settled down beside us.

“Hey.” His gaze raked over Donovan with nothing but pure loathing in his eyes. Donovan tensed beneath me, his arms wrapping around me protectively. “I just wanted to tell Olivia happy birthday.”

“Good. Now get the fuck out of here,” Donovan replied in a dangerous, low hiss. Wes leaned forward in his seat, no doubt ready to get between the guys if someone decided to throw a punch.

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